Lots to taste at regional event

It was a packed house with nearly 3,000 people at the Denver Merchandise Mart during the Metro North Chamber of Commerce Taste of the Chamber event Oct. 17.

Food vendors from all over the north metro area shared their foods and beverages, leaving attendees with stuffed bellies.

“It’s exciting to have so many people attend because our community continues to support local business year in and year out and that speaks volumes,” said Deborah Obermeyer, president and CEO of the Metro North Chamber of Commerce. “So it is nice to see this event well attended and it keeps growing.”

This was the 11th year for the Chamber Taste event. Obermeyer said it was initially started after the 911 tragedy as way to bring the community together and recognize fire, police and emergency workers who so unselfishly serve and protect the community. This year 30 restaurants and 30 businesses sponsored the event. Obermeyer said with an event like the Chamber Taste, the community has a chance to experience the best of what this region has to offer and it also gives great exposure to the participating businesses.

“There is no need to drive deep into Denver for a night out on the town or a day with the family,” she said “We have fantastic options right here in our area, all open and ready for business. The Metro North Chamber encourages the community to support and do business with these vendors after the event.”

Village Tavern in Broomfield was one of the many restaurants at the taste event. Bar manager Devin Byrd said the event helps the name of the restaurant get out to the public. Byrd was serving chicken skewers, key lime pie and sangria for patrons.

“There is only one Village Tavern in Colorado, so it’s important for us to be a part of events this one because we want people to know us and come check us out,” he said.

Hideaway Steakhouse in Westminster is new to the restaurant industry. Only in business for a year-and-a-half, owner Terrie Woodward said the Chamber Taste event is crucial in terms of reaching out to people in the community.

“This is our second time here and it really is a great event,” she said. “Since we are new, it really helps us get our name out. It’s just a wonderful opportunity for us as a business.”